Sr. Manager, Merchandise Planning & Supply Chain Management (Project Hire)

Universal Studio's (SP)

Orlando, FL, USA

Published: 5/3/2026

Hospitality / Tourism / Events

Full time

JOB SUMMARY:

The Manager of Merchandise Planning & Supply Chain Management will own the design and implementation of the future-state supply and demand planning, replenishment/allocation, and logistics integration, ensuring plans are realistic, executable, and aligned with the Guest experience and financial goals.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

End-to-End Planning Process Design:
- Map current demand planning, supply planning, purchasing, allocation, and replenishment processes across parks, DCs, outlets, and e-commerce.
- Design the future state integrated planning flow: how forecasts are generated and approved, how supply plans and buys are created, and how stock is allocated and replenished across the network.
- Define clear roles, responsibilities, and hand-offs between Demand Planning, Supply Planning, Merch, DC Operations, Logistics, and Stores/Parks, including meeting cadences and approval points.
Policy and Parameter Framework:
- Establish service level and stock policies (e.g., target availability levels, safety stock approaches) by product/channel/park.
- Define the parameter strategy for planning (calendars, lead times, order frequencies, min/max, lot sizes) and clarify who owns and maintains which parameters.
- Embed event-driven and seasonal realities (special events, new attractions, peak periods, weather sensitivity) into planning rules and scenarios.
Solution Design & Testing:
- Lead design workshops for demand and supply planning, allocation, and replenishment; translate business needs into configuration requirements.
- Define test scenarios and scripts for planning and supply modules, including edge cases like supply disruptions, demand surges, and event misses.
- Oversee UAT for planning and supply capabilities, manage defects and change requests, and sign off that processes and tools are ready for go-live.
Operational Readiness, Training & Stabilization:
- Create day in the life scenarios for planners, buyers, DC, and logistics teams in the new tools and processes, and use them as the basis for training.
- Develop playbooks for common issues (short shipments, late containers, event risk, over stock/off price triggers) that show how to respond using the new capabilities.
- Track early KPIs post go-live (availability, inventory, turns, expediting costs, fulfilment performance) and lead stabilization and continuous improvement cycles.
Network and Logistics Integration:
- Document constraints and characteristics of the physical network: vendor lead times and MOQs, DC capacities, transport lanes, and transit times.
- Ensure planning processes and system configuration reflect these constraints so system outputs are executable in the real network.
- Partner with Logistics and DC Ops to design and test key flows (new product introductions, seasonal builds, outlet / liquidation flows, emergency replenishment).
Understand and actively participate in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UDX policy, procedures, training, and team member involvement activities.
Perform other duties as assigned

EDUCATION:

Bachelors degree in Business, Finance, Retail Management, or related field.

EXPERIENCE:

7+ years of experience in merchandise planning, strategy, or retail operations.
Proven experience leading cross-functional initiatives or new market entries
Knowledge of global supply chain processes, vendor management, and import logistics.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Consistent attendance is a job requirement.
Requires meetings with global partners outside normal business hours.
Strong analytical and financial acumen; expert proficiency in Excel and planning tools (Oracle, SAP, etc.).
Excellent communication, project management, and stakeholder engagement skills.
Strategic thinker with the ability to translate data into actionable insights.
Collaborative innovator focused on building scalable, future-proof solutions.
Passion for theme park or entertainment retail and understanding of consumer experience-driven environments.
Comfortable working in dynamic, fast-paced environments with evolving strategic priorities.

Your talent, skills and experience will be rewarded with a competitive compensation package.

Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E)

At Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E), we transform iconic stories into products and experiences fans can wear, play, collect, and enjoy every day. From the thrilling universe of Jurassic World to the fun of Minions and the timeless magic of Back to the Future, we bring beloved franchises to life far beyond the screen.

Founded in 2016, UP&E combines the energy of a startup with the reach of a global leader. Our mission is bold yet simple: to take imagination beyond the screen through innovative products, immersive retail, and unforgettable theme park experiences. Partnering with world class licensees and creators, we deliver toys, fashion, collectibles, games, and lifestyle products across parks, retail, and digital platforms worldwide.

Creativity, technology, and storytelling are at the heart of everything we do. As part of Universal Destinations & Experiences, youll join a collaborative, inclusive global team where every voice mattershelping us be an employer of choice for top talent and a partner of choice for retailers, licensees, and creators. If youre ready to bring imagination to life and create moments that matter, your adventure starts here.

Join us and help create moments that matter.

https://www.universalproductsexperiences.com/

Universal is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Universal Orlando via-email, the Internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written Statement of Work in place for this position from Universal Orlando HR/Recruitment will be deemed the sole property of Universal Orlando. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Universal Orlando as a result of the referral or through other means.

Universal Orlando Resort. Here you can.